Saving Sweet Briar College through Transformational Change Management

Dr. Drumm McNaughton interviews Dr. Meredith Woo, president of Sweet Briar College, about the Sweet Briar Miracle, the college’s transformation using change management principles.

Podcast Highlights

• Sweet Briar College faced a major uphill climb after alumnae successfully pushed back the board of trustees’ decision to close the institution.
• The college had to find ways to address and change perceived challenges, including declining interest in a liberal arts education, waning enrollment by women in women’s colleges, and the institution’s location in a rural Virginia setting.
• The college’s leaders started their change initiative with major overhauls of the academic program, financial decision-making and budget.
• The second phase of this initiative involves creating a strong focus on women’s leadership that is integrated into the liberal arts curriculum and sustainability.
• The college grew enrollment by 42% after announcing the changes, and continues its growth to this day.

To see full show notes, visit https://changinghighered.com

Dr. Drumm McNaughton provides crisis management and transformation consulting services for higher ed institutions. 

Links to Articles, Apps, or websites mentioned during the interview:

• Sweet Briar College

Guest Social Media Links:

• Meredith Woo on LinkedIn

The Change Leader’s Social Media Links:

• Website: https://changinghighered.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
• Email: [email protected]

Sponsor: Perdia Education